Trends

Industry Insights: Finish Times 2013-2023

Price$99.00

Does it feel like runners are getting faster? According to a new report from Running USA, the answer is yes—at least for certain distances. From shattering world records to breaking personal bests, the recreational running world has seen changes in the past decade.

Note: This report is free to all active Running USA members. You must be logged into your account to reflect the accurate zero price.

The report highlights astonishing milestones, such as the progression of women’s marathon world records. In fact, 14 of the top 20 fastest women’s marathon times have been achieved since the start of 2023.

Men’s half marathon performances show a similar trend. Of the top 30 fastest half marathon times in history, only three occurred before 2019. But is this rapid improvement limited to elite runners, or is the trend mirrored among everyday road race participants?

( $0.00 for All Members )
Want a discount? Become a member by purchasing Foundation Member, Contributing Member, Standard Vendor Member, Standard Event Member or Member Upgrade!

Product Description

Does it feel like runners are getting faster? According to a new report from Running USA, the answer is yes—at least for certain distances. From shattering world records to breaking personal bests, the recreational running world has seen changes in the past decade. The new Industry Trends report is now available for download here and is free for all Running USA members.

The report highlights astonishing milestones, such as the progression of women’s marathon world records. In 2003, Paula Radcliffe’s 2:15:25 record stood for 16 years until Brigid Kosgei’s historic run at the 2019 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Then, Tigist Asefa slashed an additional two minutes off that time in Berlin last year, and Ruth Chepngetich stunned the world with a 2:09:56 victory in Chicago just months ago. In fact, 14 of the top 20 fastest women’s marathon times have been achieved since the start of 2023.

Men’s half marathon performances show a similar trend. Of the top 30 fastest half marathon times in history, only three occurred before 2019.
But is this rapid improvement limited to elite runners, or is the trend mirrored among everyday road race participants? Running USA’s latest analysis dives into data across all levels of participation, revealing nuanced insights.